Definition

Abdominal pregnancy is a rare and potentially life-threatening condition in which a fertilized egg attaches and grows outside the uterus, typically in the abdominal cavity.

Causes

Abdominal pregnancy can occur due to various factors, including:

  • Tubal abortion: When an early pregnancy in the fallopian tube ruptures and the embryo implants in the abdomen instead of the uterus.
  • Tubal rupture: A rupture in the fallopian tube can cause the fertilized egg to be expelled into the abdomen.
  • Implantation dysfunction: Rarely, the fertilized egg may directly implant in the abdominal organs rather than descending into the uterus.

Symptoms

Abdominal pregnancy may present with the following symptoms:

  • Abdominal pain: Severe abdominal pain, usually localized in a particular area.
  • Abdominal distension: The abdomen may appear larger than expected due to the growing fetus outside the uterus.
  • Fetal movement: The fetus may be felt moving in an atypical location.
  • Vaginal bleeding: Some cases may exhibit vaginal bleeding, though it is not always present.

Risks and Complications

Abdominal pregnancy poses numerous risks and complications, including:

  • Maternal hemorrhage: As the placenta is poorly attached in the abdominal cavity, there is an increased risk of severe bleeding during pregnancy or delivery.
  • Premature labor: The fetus may be delivered prematurely, resulting in potential complications.
  • Illicit implantation: The fetus may implant in vital abdominal organs, leading to organ damage.
  • Maternal mortality: If left untreated, abdominal pregnancy can be fatal for the mother.

Treatment

The management of abdominal pregnancy typically involves:

  • Early diagnosis: Accurate and prompt diagnosis is crucial to prevent complications.
  • Surgical intervention: Surgery is often necessary to remove the ectopic pregnancy and repair any damaged tissues.
  • Blood transfusion: In cases of significant blood loss, a blood transfusion may be required.

It is important to note that abdominal pregnancy is extremely rare, accounting for only 1% of ectopic pregnancies. Nonetheless, it requires immediate medical attention due to its potential risks.